Cory I've ridden both, I would say that the S4 is faster, and has more grip than the watson, but you can still break the s4 loose very easily. The S4 is locked on edge coming in. As far as landings, they are about the same. I noticed a big improvement on my toeside pop on the S4 and my riding partner has the same board and he said the same thing. Both pop really well tho

Oh and I have a 09 S4 138 I'd cut you a deal on if your interested, i rode it for a couple months last season, great shape.

cory i rode the shane a couple years ago so im trying to remember but from what i do it seemed more edgy and the pop was similar to me. I would say that the S4 has a closer feel to your shane. I'm guessing you are looking at the regular model boards too and not the limiteds.....the limiteds feel looser because the grind base material cannot conform to the fins as well making them looser.

I own both an 09 s4 138 and an 09 watson 142 and am about 6'1 180 pounds and I like the watson way more. I feel like i have more control and the edges dont catch as easily. but the S4 definitely is much easier to fling around. After riding the S4 for about a month my shins began to hurt and that has never happened to me before but could just be me. The watson is much smoother and very predictable